How to Setup to Multi-User Mode in QuickBooks Desktop?

Multi-user mode in QuickBooks allows multiple users to access the same company file simultaneously from different workstations. It operates in a shared network environment and requires a host computer to manage and share the file. The number of users who can work on the same QuickBooks file at the same time is typically determined by the seat count associated with the valid QuickBooks license.

For example, QuickBooks Pro typically allows a maximum of 3 seats/users to log in simultaneously. It’s quite likely the user may spend most of his time in multi-user mode unless doing a specific task.

You can use multi-user mode in QuickBooks Desktop in two ways:

1. Server-Workstation Setup: The server hosts the company files, and workstations access them.
2. Server-Only Install: Only the server has QuickBooks installed, and all users access it remotely.

Precautions To Take Before Switching to Multi-User Mode

Make sure that QuickBooks software is installed with the latest version to gain benefit from the latest features and security enhancements.

• Store your QuickBooks company file on a centralized server. This allows easy access for multiple users who need to work on financial data.
• Install an independent and licensed copy of QuickBooks on each local workstation. This ensures smooth functioning and avoids conflicts.
  • QuickBooks has an alternative allowance for the number of users.
  • QuickBooks Pro supports up to 3 simultaneous users.
  • QuickBooks Premier permits up to 5 users to work concurrently.
  • QuickBooks Enterprise provides the capacity for up to 30 simultaneous users.

System Requirements for QuickBooks Multi-User Mode Setup

Make sure your system meets the necessary criteria before enabling Multi-User Mode:

• QuickBooks Desktop Version: Multi-User Mode is supported in QuickBooks Pro, Premier, and Enterprise editions.
• Network Setup: The company file must reside in a shared network folder or on a server that all users can access.
• Licenses: Each user who accesses QuickBooks in Multi-User Mode needs a valid QuickBooks license. 

Keep these requirements in mind to ensure smooth operation when using QuickBooks in a multi-user mode.

How to Setup Multi-User Mode in QuickBooks Desktop?

To make the switch from QB Single-User mode to Multi-User mode follow the steps mentioned below:

Note: When setting up multi-user mode in QuickBooks Desktop, it’s recommended to store your company files on the local hard drive of your server computer. This ensures better performance and reliability for accessing the files across multiple users.

Step 1: Install QuickBooks on Your System

1. Download QuickBooks from the official web page.
2. Complete the installation process by following the on-screen instructions.
3. Choose the Multi-User Host Installation option. 

Step 2: Enable Multi-Host User Access

1. Open QuickBooks and click on File.
2. Select Utilities and then choose Multi-Host User Access.
3. If the option Stop Hosting Multi-User Access appears, it means you are already hosting QuickBooks in multi-user mode. 

Step 3: Scan Company File with QuickBooks Database Server Manager

1. Locate your company file on your PC.
2. Click on the Start button and go to Programs.
3. Open QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
4. Choose Scan Folder to continue.
5. Add the specific location and folder where you want to save the File.
6. Click OK to proceed.
7. If needed, add a new folder using the Add Folder option.
8. Click Scan to automate the scanning process.
9. After completion, mark the tick and click Close.

Step 4: Prepare the Company File for Multiple Users Access

1. Add all users and grant them access to the company file.
2. Secure your company data by setting a password to protect it from unauthorized access. 

Step 5: Log In to the Company File with Other Users

1. Coordinate with different users to access the QuickBooks company file and log in.
2. Ensure that the PC hosting the company file is powered on. 

To set up the recommended multi-user mode:

1. Navigate to the File menu and select Utilities.
2. Choose Host Multi-User Access.
3. Confirm by selecting Yes in the confirmation window.

Features available in Single-user Mode and Multi-user Mode

To switch from Single-user Mode to Multi-user Mode in QuickBooks Desktop, you need to First, navigate to the QuickBooks File menu.

From there, select either “Switch to Single-user Mode” or “Switch to Multi-user Mode.” Keep in mind that certain functions, such as Payroll and Bank Feeds, have a lock-out system in Multi-user Mode, which prevents multiple users from accessing the same function simultaneously.

Managing lists

Tasks/Features	Single-user mode	Multi-user mode
Chart of Accounts	Yes	Yes/No*
Items list	Yes	Yes/No*
Other Names list	Yes	Yes
Customer and Vendor Type list	Yes	Yes
Price Levels/Price Rules	Yes	Yes
Templates	Yes	Yes
To Do	Yes	Yes
Add/edit multiple list entries	Yes	Yes

*While you can add, edit and remove list data, merging is NOT possible in multi-user mode.

Accountant-related tasks

Tasks/Features	Single-user mode	Multi-user mode
Create Accountant’s Copy	Yes	No
Save Accountant’s Copy	Yes	No
Send Accountant’s Copy to accountants	Yes	No
Send company file, create portable file	Yes	No
Accounting tools	Yes	Yes
Batch delete/void transactions	Yes	No
Batch enter transactions	Yes	Yes

Print/email tasks

Tasks/Features	Single-user mode	Multi-user mode
Printer setup	Yes	Yes
Print forms	Yes	Yes
Send forms	Yes	Yes
Shipping label (US only)	Yes	Yes

Business process/workflow

Tasks/Features	Single-user mode	Multi-user mode
Custom reporting	Yes	Yes
Set closing date	Yes	No
Set up budget	Yes	Yes
Set up forecast	Yes	Yes
Cash flow projector	Yes	Yes
Use Business Plan tool	Yes	Yes
Manage fixed assets (US only)	Yes	No
Enter vehicle mileage	Yes	Yes
Prepare letters with envelopes	Yes	Yes
Enter customer transactions	Yes	Yes
Enter statement charges	Yes	Yes
Create statements	Yes	Yes
Assess finance charges	Yes	No*
Enter time	Yes	Yes
Income tracker	Yes	Yes
Lead Center	Yes	Yes
Change Item price	Yes	Yes
Vendor center	Yes	Yes
Enter vendor transactions	Yes	Yes
1099 Wizard (US only)	Yes	No
1099 Report (US only)	Yes	Yes
Create Checks/checks	Yes	Yes
Order Checks/checks	Yes	Yes
Reconciliation	Yes	Yes
Set up bank feeds	Yes	Yes
Change bank feeds mode (US only)	Yes	No
Reports center	Yes	Yes
Memorized reports	Yes	Yes
Scheduled reports	Yes	No
Commented reports	Yes	Yes
Advanced reporting (US only)	No	Yes
Process multiple reports	Yes	Yes
QuickBooks Statement Writer	Yes	Yes
Combined reports	Yes	Yes

*First time setup of finance charges is not possible in Multi-user mode.

Company file operations

Tasks/Features	Single-user mode	Multi-user mode
Create local backup	Yes	Yes
Set up/activate online backup	Yes	Yes
Create portable company file	Yes	No
Convert company file	Yes	Yes
Repair file and network problems	Yes	Yes
Stop hosting multi-user access	Yes	Yes
Disable QuickBooks Manager	No	Yes
Verify data	Yes	Yes*
Rebuild data	Yes	No
Condense data (US only)	Yes	No
Update Web Services	Yes	Yes
Copy company file for QuickBooks Online	Yes	No

*You can run Verify Data utility in Multi-user mode but others will be prevented from doing work.

Importing/exporting data

Tasks/Features	Single-user mode	Multi-user mode
Import Excel files	Yes	Yes
Advanced import	Yes	No
Import IIF	Yes	Yes*
Import WebConnect files	Yes	Yes
Import timer activities	Yes	No
Import general journal entries	Yes	Yes
Export lists to IIF files	Yes	No
Export addresses to text file	Yes	Yes
Export timer lists	Yes	No

*You can import IIF files in QuickBooks Pro/Premier/Enterprise 2019 and newer.

Employee and payroll activities

Tasks/Features	Single-user mode	Multi-user mode
Employee Center	Yes	Yes
Payroll setup (Manual payroll)	Yes	No
Pay with direct deposit (US only)	Yes	Yes

Preferences

Tasks/Features	Single-user mode	Multi-user mode
Accounting	Yes	Yes/No*
Bills	Yes	Yes/No*
Calendar	Yes	Yes/No*
Checking/checking	Yes	Yes/No*
Desktop view	Yes	Yes/No*
Finance charge	Yes	Yes/No*
General	Yes	Yes/No*
Integrated applications	Yes	Yes/No*
Items and inventory	Yes	Yes/No*
Jobs and estimates	Yes	Yes/No*
Multiple currencies	Yes	Yes/No*
Payments	Yes	Yes/No*
Payroll and expenses	Yes	Yes/No*
Reminders	Yes	Yes/No*
Reports and graphs	Yes	Yes/No*
Sales and customers	Yes	Yes/No*
Sales tax	Yes	Yes/No*
Search	Yes	Yes/No*
Send forms	Yes	Yes/No*
Service connection	Yes	Yes/No*
Spelling	Yes	Yes/No*
Tax: 1099 (US only)	Yes	Yes/No*
Time and expenses	Yes	Yes/No*

*When you are in Multi-user mode, you can make changes on the My Preferences tab but NOT on the Company Preferences.

Other Tasks

Tasks/Features	Single-user mode	Multi-user mode
Synchronize contacts	Yes	Yes
Set up QuickBooks ODBC	Yes	Yes
Use Register	Yes	Yes
Use Calculator	Yes	Yes
Find	Yes	Yes
Search	Yes	Yes
Customize Favorites	Yes	Yes
Bulk enter company business details	Yes	Yes
Reminders	Yes	Yes
Alerts Manager	Yes	Yes
QuickBooks Messenger	Yes	Yes

Advantages of QuickBooks Multi-User Mode

QuickBooks’ multi-user mode promotes collaboration, efficiency, and accuracy, which makes it an excellent choice for businesses with multiple team members.

Collaboration Efficiency:

• Multi-user mode allows several team members to work simultaneously on the same QuickBooks company file.
• Users can input data, reconcile accounts, and generate reports at the same time, which helps in enhancing productivity.

Real-Time Updates:

• Any Changes made by one user are instantly visible to others.
• This real-time synchronization ensures accurate financial data and prevents conflicts.

Centralized Data Storage:

• The company file is on a centralized server, which makes it accessible to all authorized users.
• Reduces the transference of files manually.

Enhanced Security:

• User-specific access levels can be set, and certain actions or sensitive data can be restricted.
• The Password protection feature ensures that only authorized personnel can access the File.

Scalability:

• As your business grows, multi-user mode accommodates additional users seamlessly.
• There is no need to switch software or disrupt operations.

Reduced Downtime:

• Users can work independently without waiting for others to finish tasks.
• This minimizes downtime and keeps operations running smoothly.

How to Set Up QuickBooks Desktop Server for Multi-User Access?

In QuickBooks, a multi-user network or Hosting refers to a configuration that allows multiple users to access and work with the same QuickBooks company file simultaneously. To set up QuickBooks server to host multi-user access, follow these essential steps to ensure your network and permissions are properly configured:

Consider the steps mentioned below to set up a Multi-User Network in QuickBooks:

Step 1: Download and Install QuickBooks Desktop

1. Download QuickBooks and save the installation file.
2. Follow the installation process, choosing the custom and network install options.
3. Select whether you’ll use QuickBooks Desktop on the current PC or if you want the full version on the server system (which will host files). 

Step 2: Switch to Multi-User Hosting

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop.
2. Update your QuickBooks company file to the latest edition if needed.
3. Go to the File menu in the upper left-hand corner and click on Utilities, then select Host Multi-User Access.
4. If you’ve already set up multi-user hosting, proceed to the next step. 

Step 3: Firewall and Security Settings Configuration

1. Open the Start menu and check the firewall settings.
2. Select Windows Firewall and click on the Advanced Settings.
3. Choose Inbound Rules and then select New Rules.
4. Click on Port and proceed.
5. Specify the required ports for your QuickBooks version using TCP.
6. Allow the connection.
7. Register profiles and move to the next step.
8. Assign a name to the rule and complete the process.
9. Finally, open QuickBooks in multi-user mode. 

Step 4: Set Folder and Windows Access Permissions for Sharing Company Files

1. Right-click on the folder which contains the company file.
2. Go to Properties and select Security.
3. Click on Edit.
4. Choose QBDataServicesUserXX (where XX represents a specific QuickBooks version).
5. Select Full Control and click Allow.
6. Click Apply and then OK.
7. Set up Windows access permissions for sharing company files. 

On Windows 10, 8, or 7:

1. Press Windows + R to open the file explorer.
2. Locate the folder with the company files.
3. Right-click on the folder with company files.
4. Choose Properties and Sharing Options.
5. Click on Share and select the corresponding QBSataServiceUserXX. 

Step 5: Download Database Server Manager

1. Download and update QuickBooks Desktop, and the Database Server Manager will update automatically.
2. Install it on your server computer (the one hosting your company files).
3. Ensure the Database Server Manager has permission to run on your server computer.
4. Scan your company files so they can be accessed over your network. 

Step 6: Give Windows Admin Rights to Allow Multi-user Access

For Windows 10 users:

1. Open Settings, go to Accounts and select Add another person on this PC.
2. Choose “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information” and create a user without a Microsoft account.
3. Assign a name and password to the account.
4. Provide admin rights to the new user and select the account type as Admin. 

For Windows 8 and 7 users:

1. Press Ctrl + R, open the Control Panel and select Manage another account.
2. Create a new account, assign a username, and choose the admin role. 

Step 7: Start With a Company File Located on a Remote System in QuickBooks

1. Open the QuickBooks file menu.
2. Select Change to Multi-User Mode.
3. In the Multi-User Setup Hosting window, choose Yes.
4. Click OK on the Multi-User Setup Data window.
5. Add anticipated users by opening the company file and clicking on Set Up Users and Passwords.
6. Click Next, then select Add Users separately.

How to Use QuickBooks in Multi User Mode?

To use QuickBooks in multi-user mode, follow these below steps:

1. Set Folder Permissions:
   • Right-click the folder with your company file.
   • Select Properties > Security > Edit.
   • Choose QBDataServiceUserXX and click Full Control.
   • Press Allow, then Apply, and OK.
2. Set Sharing Permissions:
   • Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
   • Right-click the folder with your company files.
   • Go to Properties > Sharing > Share.
   • Select the corresponding QBDataServiceUserXX.
   • Set both users’ permission levels to Full Control and Share.

This setup ensures all workstations can access and work with your company files.

How do you create access & permission for your company data for multi-user mode under QuickBooks Desktop?

QuickBooks uses a service to manage company file access:

• QuickBooks 2023 uses QuickBooksDB33
• QuickBooks 2024 uses QuickBooksDB34
• QuickBooks 2022 uses QuickBooksDB32

In the Windows Control Panel, you can find the service in User Accounts under Users for this computer.

QuickBooks Desktop requires 3 conditions to be met before it can allow access to company files:

Once these 3 requirements are fulfilled, you can open the company file.

Best Practices for Managing QuickBooks in Multi-User Mode

Here are the guidelines for managing QuickBooks in Multi-User Mode:

• Backup Company File Regularly: Perform regular backups of the company file to safeguard against data loss or corruption. Schedule automatic backups to ensure data integrity and quick recovery in case of any issues.
• Train Users on Multi-User Etiquette: Educate all users on proper Multi-User Mode etiquette to minimize data conflicts. Encourage users to communicate effectively and avoid editing the same transaction simultaneously.
• Restrict Access to Sensitive Data: Assign user permissions carefully, granting access only to the data necessary for each user’s role. Restrict sensitive financial information to authorized personnel to maintain data security.
• Monitor System Performance: Regularly monitor your network and computer performance, especially during peak usage times. Upgrade hardware and network infrastructure if needed to maintain optimal performance of QuickBooks in Multi-User Mode.
• Keep QuickBooks Updated: Regularly update QuickBooks to the latest version. Install any available updates or patches to gain access to the latest features, security upgrades, and bug fixes.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Multi-User Mode allows seamless collaboration and efficient financial management within the organization. You can streamline workflows and boost productivity by following the setup process and best practices mentioned in this article.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q 1. Can You Connect Multiple Accounts to QuickBooks?

Ans. You can manage multiple companies under a single QuickBooks account. Each company file requires its own subscription, but you can access all of them with the same sign-in credentials.

Q 2. Why does QuickBooks keep Going to Single-User Mode?

Ans. QuickBooks defaults to a single-user mode for a smooth experience. To enable collaboration, switch to multi-user mode by selecting the option when opening the company file.

Q 3. How to Install QuickBooks Pro on a Server for Multiple User?

Ans. QuickBooks Pro offers a multiuser mode for one person on two computers or multiple users. Each user needs a valid license. QuickBooks Database Server Manager syncs company files across authorized computers on the network and scans for updates.

Q 4. how to switch to multi user mode in quickBooks desktop?

To switch modes, first go to the File menu in QuickBooks then choose Switch to Single-user Mode or Switch to Multi-user Mode option.

Note: Multiple users can access the file, but some functions like Payroll and Bank Feeds have a lockout system. This prevents simultaneous access to those specific functions by multiple users.

Q 5. Why is Multi-User Mode Not Working in QuickBooks Desktop?

Poor network connectivity or software interruptions can block multiple users from accessing the QuickBooks company file. This issue typically arises when the multi-user connection on the server hosting the company file is disabled, or when firewall or antivirus settings prevent communication between user computers.

Q 6. How can multiple users access QuickBooks at the same time?

Follow the below steps to access QuickBooks by multiple users at the same time:

1. Open File Explorer: Press the Windows Start button and open File Explorer.
2. Locate Folder: Find the folder with your company files, right-click, and select Properties.
3. Adjust Security Settings: Go to the Security tab, select Advanced, and then choose QBDataServiceUserXX. Click Edit and set all options to Allowed.
4. Apply Changes: Click Apply, then OK.

Next Steps:

1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
2. Right-click your company folder and go to Properties > Sharing > Shared Add.
3. Select QBDataServiceUserXX for your version.
4. Set permissions to Full Control and Share for both users.

Following these steps ensures proper folder permissions and network access for QuickBooks.

Q 7. Can Two People Use the Same QuickBooks Account?

Yes, two people can access the same QuickBooks account simultaneously, but you’ll need at least two QuickBooks licenses—one for each user. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Purchase Licenses: Purchase an extra license for each user.
2. Connect Computers: Ensure both computers are on the same network.
3. Share the File: Set up the company file for shared access between users.
4. Sync Licenses: On the first computer, go to Help > Manage My License > Sync License Data Online.
5. Enable Multi-User Mode: Switch to multi-user access via File > Switch to Multi-User Mode.